Vermont Copper

Reuben Harmon Jr., of Rupert, Vermont, was granted permission to coin copper pieces for a period of two years beginning July 1, 1785. (Vermont, then a republic, would not become a state until 1791.) The well-known Vermont "Landscape" coppers were first produced in that year. The franchise was extended for eight years in 1786.

Harmon's mint was located in the northeast corner of Rupert near a stream known as Millbrook. Colonel William Coley, a New York goldsmith, made the first dies. Some of the late issues were made near Newburgh, New York, by the Machin's Mills coiners.

Most Vermont coppers were struck on poor and defective planchets. Well-struck coins on smooth, full planchets command higher prices.